A thriving community: one family at a time.

Education

Community

Support

Education • Community • Support •

Our mission is to establish a community center, provide access to quality care and education, and to reduce the cost barrier for care in Elkhart and surrounding counties to improve birth and postpartum outcomes, mental health, and wholistic family wellness. 

Core Values

  1. Equity: We are committed to addressing and eliminating disparities in maternal and infant health by ensuring equal access to care and resources for all families, regardless of their socio-economic status, race, or background.

  2. Education: We believe in the power of knowledge and provide comprehensive, evidence-based education to families and birth professionals to empower informed decision-making and improve health outcomes.

  3. Community: We foster a supportive and inclusive community that values the contributions of every member, creating a network of support for birthing families and professionals alike.

  4. Accessibility: We strive to make high-quality maternal and infant healthcare accessible to all by reducing cost barriers and ensuring services are available to underserved and vulnerable populations.

  5. Advocacy: We advocate for policies and practices that support maternal and infant health, working to influence positive change at local, state, and national levels.

  6. Collaboration: We value partnerships with healthcare providers, community organizations, and other stakeholders, believing that collaboration is key to creating a comprehensive support system for birthing families.

  7. Cultural Competence: We respect and honor the diverse cultural backgrounds of the families we serve, integrating cultural sensitivity into all aspects of our care and education.

  8. Holistic Wellness: We promote a holistic approach to health and wellness, recognizing the interconnectedness of physical, mental, and emotional well-being in maternal and infant care.

  9. Support for Birth Professionals: We invest in the professional growth and well-being of birth professionals through continuing education, mentorship, and resources, recognizing their critical role in improving maternal and infant health.

  10. Autonomy: We value diverse perspectives and advocates for a supportive environment where individuals can access resources and information to make empowered choices that align with their beliefs and circumstances.

A special note on reproductive rights:

At Nest & Grow, we recognize that discussions surrounding reproductive rights are complex and deeply personal. Our organization is committed to fostering a respectful and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives on this issue can be acknowledged and understood. We support the right of individuals to hold differing views on this matter and encourage open dialogue that is grounded in empathy and mutual respect.

Meet the Founders

Emily Martin, IBCLC
Founder, Co-Executive Director

Emily is an Internationally Board Certified Lactation Consultant working with Milk Guide to serve the greater Goshen area through their infant feeding experience. She established a breastfeeding support group in 2022 to increase access to community and support.

Jayde Wilkinson
Founder, Co-Executive Director

Jayde is a Doula and Birth Educator. She has served local families as they navigate pregnancy, birth, and postpartum through doula services, education, and support groups since 2017.

Meet the Board

  • Emily Martin

    Co-Director

  • Jayde Wilkinson

    Co-Director

  • Kristina Wendler, RN

    Secretary

  • Betsy Black

    Treasurer

  • Jessica Ortiz

    Chairperson

  • Samantha Shankshaw, RN

    Chairperson

  • Sabrina Rivera

    Chairperson

  • Haley Bontrager

    Chairperson